Lisnabreeny and Cregagh Glen

Lisnabreeny takes in wooded glen, estate and green field to the summit of the Castlereagh hills on the edge of east Belfast.

The path hugs the sides of Cregagh glen as it climbs through pools of sunlight cast by the trees. You’ll hear the waterfall, but also keep an eye out for the carpets of bluebell and wood anemone in spring.

Near the top of the glen, pause a moment at the memorial marking a temporary graveyard for American servicemen during the second world war.

Follow the path past Lisnabreeny house, once the home of poet Nesca Robb, briefly a youth hostel and army headquarters before restoration as part of Lagan College.

Look out for the ivy-strewn walls of the old garden, now replanted with broadleaves and build a den in the natural play area.

Futher up into the hills and open countryside, take in the view from the Mournes to Scrabo.

Atop the hill is the rath that gives the area its name, an ancient fortified homestead encircled with trees.